Nathaniel Smith

Nathaniel Smith, 77, of Columbia, South Carolina, entered into rest on July 8, 2026, at his residence. He was born August 12, 1948, in Beatrice, Alabama to the late Anthony L. Smith and Mamie Smith. Nathaniel spent his formative years in Beatrice, Alabama.

Nathaniel attended Tuskegee University where he majored in engineering. Following the completion of his undergraduate education, he completed a master’s degree in nuclear engineering at Tuskegee University and a second master’s degree in engineering administration from George Washington University. Nathaniel also served his country as an officer in the United States Army where he supported Operation Desert Shield/ Storm in one of his duty assignments. He would retire from the United States Army Reserves in 1997. Professionally, Nathaniel worked as a nuclear engineer for Dominion Energy until the time of his civilian retirement.

Nathaniel was a caring loving individual who loved to help family, friends and his community. He enjoyed traveling and was known to drive his cars until the wheels fell off, literally. He would travel for leisure or to see family and friends. Nathaniel had a love for music and gardening. He really enjoyed growing vegetables. One of his other loves was Star Trek and Star Wars. As an academic minded person, he naturally loved science fiction. Nathaniel also loved food. He was a foodie and often served as a judge for BBQ contests. As he grew older in life, he kept himself busy working with the local VFW and his Homeowners Association.

While his physical presence is gone, he will forever remain in the thoughts, memories and hearts of his daughters, Keisha Albritton (Emanuel) and Natalie Smith; Grandchildren, Amani Holder-Dixon (Justin), Elijah Albritton, Caleb Albritton, and Zaria Albritton; Sister, Earlean Atkins; brother-in-law, Oscar Downs Jr. (Deborah); Half-brother, Andrew Smith (Rhonda);special niece, Valerie Smith; a host of nieces/nephews, grandnieces/nephews, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Mamie Smith; wife, LeNay Downs Smith; siblings, Marion Smith, Jessie Smith, Richard Smith, and Linda Bonsu; and nieces/nephews: Terri Smith and Stephanie Smith.